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Public Assistance Workbook Guide For City Departments
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PUBLIC ASSISTANCE WORKBOOK
REFERENCE GUIDE FOR CITY DEPARTMENTS
The purpose of the Public Assistance Workbook is to guide City departments through the Federal
Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Public Assistance (PA) program. This workbook
contains recommendations for action, checklists, eligibility requirements, and procedures related to
the program’s administration.
In anticipation of—or immediately following—a disaster, the Office of Emergency Management
(OEM) is responsible for activating the City’s Public Assistance Plan and supporting Public
Assistance Workbooks. OEM’s primary role is to coordinate the City’s PA application, and to liaise
between City departments and PEMA/FEMA specialists. OEM acts on behalf of the City as an
advocate, and is available to support City departments throughout the PA process.
This workbook is geared towards City departments, specifically. If requested by OEM to participate
in the PA program, departmental representatives should review this workbook for critical information,
next steps, and required documentation.
This document is based on FEMA’s 2018 Public Assistance Program and Policy Guide (PAPPG).
Click the link below for additional information:
https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/111781.
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ADDITIONAL ACTIONS
Time Limits & Extensions…29
Change of Scope…30
Appeals…31
Annexes…33
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROJECT VALIDATION, OBLIGATION, & CLOSEOUT
How are small projects processed?........24 How are large projects processed?........27
INTERNAL REVIEW PROCESS
What happens once the PW is complete?.............................................................23
PROJECT WORKSHEET DEVELOPMENT
What projects should City departments submit for reimbursement?.....................17
KICKOFF MEETING
When can City departments discuss specific projects with PEMA and FEMA?....15
APPLICANTS' BRIEFING
What happens when the Public Assistance program is activated?......................13
PRELIMINARY DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS & REQUEST FOR DISASTER DECLARATION
How do City departments submit cost estimates?..............................................11
COST TRACKING ACTIVITIES
How do City departments contribute to the program's activation?.....................8
ELIGIBLITY
What is reimburseable under the Public Assistance program?.........................6
PUBLIC ASSISTANCE PROCESS
What is Public Assistance?................................................................................4
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PUBLIC ASSISTANCE PROCESS
The Public Assistance (PA) program provides funding to state and local governments—as well as
eligible private nonprofits (PNP)—to support post-disaster recovery operations. The PA program
unlocks federal disaster assistance for costs linked to debris removal operations, emergency
protective measures, and the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged property.
The grant is a cost-share program split between the federal, state, and/or local government. While
the federal reimbursement is no less than 75 percent, the state may opt to contribute up to the
remaining 25 percent. If the state does not split the funds, the residual 25 percent becomes the
responsibility of the local government or PNP.
To activate the PA program, a Presidential Disaster Declaration is required. A Presidential Disaster
Declaration is issued once a county and state prove disaster-related costs exceed the PA
program’s per capita threshold. To qualify for PA, Pennsylvania and Philadelphia County—
combined with local PNPs—must both demonstrate that incident-related expenses exceed the
thresholds1 outlined in the table below.
Type of
Assistance
Threshold2 Time to Request
Public
Assistance
State: $18,164,402 (FY16) 3 Within 30 days of
event Philadelphia: $5,508,881.66 (FY16)4
Once the PA program is activated, City departments work to identify eligible costs for the City’s
Project Worksheet(s) (PW). The PW itemizes eligible expenses incurred during disaster
preparations, responses, and recovery. Once the PW and supporting documentation is reviewed
and approved by PEMA and FEMA, the federal cost-share is calculated from the PW’s total, and
the reimbursement is transferred electronically to the City’s General Fund.
The image on the following page (Figure 1.0) outlines FEMA’s Public Assistance process. For the
purposes of the figure, PEMA is the “Recipient” and all City departments are combined under the
label of “Applicant/Subrecipient.” Each phase of the PA program implementation process is
outlined in further detail throughout this document.
1 For snow events, counties must meet or exceed record or near-record snowfall totals to be eligible. Counties who do not meet or exceed records can submit letters of appeal through the Governor’s Office. Counties may also qualify for PA as “contiguous” if snow totals exceed the record—or near record—snowfall of a bordering county. 2 The per capita impact indicator is based on the Consumer Price Index published by the US Department of Labor, and census population data. The per capita impact indicators are published annually by FEMA in the Federal Registrar. 3 The statewide threshold is the state per capita impact indicator of $1.46 multiplied by the state population of 12,702,379. The 2018 federal fiscal year extends from Oct. 1, 2017 through Sept. 30, 2018. 4 The threshold for Philadelphia is the federally mandated county per capita impact indicator of $3.68 multiplied by the county population of 1,526,006. The 2018 federal fiscal year extends from Oct. 1, 2017 through Sept. 30, 2018.
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FIGURE 1.0: PA PROGRAM IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS (PAPPG, 2018).
The table below lists the events for which Philadelphia qualified for Public Assistance since 1955.
Philadelphia Public Assistance Declaration History5 (Current – 1955)
Disaster Incident Date
Severe Winter Storm Jonas January 2016
Hurricane Sandy October 2012
Hurricane Irene August 2011
Severe Winter Storms February 2010
Flooding June 2006
Hurricane Katrina September 2005
Tropical Depression Ivan September 2004
Multiple Storms August 2004
Hurricane Floyd September 1999
Severe Winter Storms January 1996
Flooding January 1996
Severe Winter Storms January 1994
Hurricane Agnes June 1972
Flooding September 1971
Drought August 1965
5 https://www.fema.gov/disasters
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ELIGIBILITY
To qualify for PA reimbursements, the applicant, facility, work, and cost must meet FEMA’s
eligibility standards.
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS. Eligible applicants include public entities—City departments—and private
nonprofit (PNP) organizations with a granted tax exemption status, or an approved state
certificate6. Eligible PNPs must provide critical programs or other essential government services,
as outlined in the table below.7
Critical Services Other Essential
Governmental Services8
Power / Water / Gas Museums
Communications Performing Arts Facilities
Education Community Arts Center
Communications Zoos
Emergency Medical Care Libraries
Fire Protection/Emergency Services Homeless Shelters
ELIGIBLE FACILITIES. Facilities must be the property of an eligible applicant. Damage must be
directly tied to the declared disaster, and cannot receive duplicative reimbursement through
external credits such as insurance proceeds.
ELIGIBLE WORK. Eligible categories of work include emergency protective measures and/or
permanent work to repair or replace disaster-damaged facilities. The type of work—often referred
to by category—reimbursable through the program is dependent on the type of disaster
declaration. All work must be the direct result of the declared disaster, located within the
designated disaster area, be the legal responsibility of the applicant, and cannot be the result of
negligence on the part of the owner. The following table outlines the seven types of work, by
category, eligible for reimbursement.
6 Eligible PNPs have granted tax exemptions from the US Internal Revenue Service under section 501 (c), (d), or (e) of the Internal Revenue Code. Eligible PNPs also include those with state approved certificates stating that the organization is a non-revenue producing nonprofit entity conducting business under State Law. 7 PNP damages and costs are used towards reaching the City threshold. PNPs that perform “other essential governmental services” must first apply for disaster assistance through the Small Business Administration (SBA) before seeking assistance under the Public Assistance program. 8 For a complete list of “other essential governmental services” refer to FEMA Disaster Assistance Policy Private Nonprofit (PNP) Facility Eligibility https://www.fema.gov/private-nonprofit-facility-eligibility-0.
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Category Description
Emergency Work
A
Debris Removal – The clearance, removal, and/or disposal of items such as
trees, sand, gravel, building materials, wreckage, vehicles, and personal
property.
B
Emergency Protective Measures – Necessary activities taken by a
community before, during, and after a disaster to eliminate or reduce an
immediate threat to life, public health and safety, or improved property.
Permanent Work
C Roads and Bridges – Repair of roads, bridges, and associated features such
as surfaces, bases, shoulders, ditches, culverts, guardrail, lighting, etc.
D
Water Control Facilities – Repair of facilities built for channel alignment,
recreation, navigation, land reclamation, fish and wildlife habitats, interior
drainage, irrigation, erosion prevention, and flood control.
E Buildings and Equipment – Repair or replacement of buildings, including
their contents and systems, heavy equipment, and vehicles.
F Utilities – Repair of water treatment and delivery systems, power generation
facilities/distribution lines, and sewage collection/treatment facilities.
G Parks, Recreational Facilities, and Other Items – Repair and restoration of
parks, playgrounds, pools, cemeteries, and beaches.
ELIGIBLE COSTS. Reimbursable costs include expenses for force account labor, materials,
equipment, and contracts used to prepare for, respond to, and recovery from the declared disaster.
Costs must fall within the declaration’s incident period, be reasonable and necessary to accomplish
the work; in compliance with Federal, State, and local requirements for competitive procurement;
and not duplicated by any applicable credits such as insurance proceeds. If unsure of eligibility,
entities are encouraged to contact OEM to discuss the concern.9
9 For example, while standby labor is considered an ineligible cost, exceptions have been made to include activities performed to address a threat, or potential threat, to public life and safety.
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COST TRACKING ACTIVITIES
It is important for all departments to track and record the critical information—who, what, where,
when, why, and cost—related to pre-event preparations, incident response, and disaster recovery
operations. To support a Presidential Disaster Declaration, and to activate the Public Assistance
program, Philadelphia and the State must demonstrate disaster-related costs exceed FEMA’s per
capita thresholds10. As lead coordinator for the City’s PA application, the Office of Emergency
Management (OEM) is responsible for implementing the strategies outlined in the Public
Assistance Plan and supporting workbooks. In this role, OEM advocates on behalf of the City and
manages the City’s PA portfolio. If it appears as though the City and State thresholds may be
exceeded, OEM initiates the application process and begins outreach to relevant departments.
If disaster-related costs are expected to exceed the disaster threshold, OEM notifies City
departments to submit costs and damages incurred. To expedite the Public Assistance process,
the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and FEMA may require initial cost
estimates within the first 72 hours following the cessation of disaster conditions. To support this
expedited timeline, departments should actively track, record costs, and estimate disaster-related
expenses through the preparation, response, and recovery phases. Specifically, departments
should track and record costs related to labor, contracts, equipment, materials, and property
damage. For more information on cost tracking, see below.
10 Philadelphia’s and Pennsylvania’s FFY18 per capita thresholds are $5,615,702.08 and $18,545,473, respectively. The 2018 federal fiscal year extends from Oct. 1, 2017 through Sept. 30, 2018.
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Labor. Estimate labor totals using base salary, overtime, and fringe costs. For questions related to
fringe rates, contact OEM’s Recovery Planning Coordinator. Specifically, departments should
collect the following information:
❖ Overtime hours worked and dates for permanent, temporary, reassigned, essential employees
called back from administrative leave, and grant-funded personnel;
❖ Work location; and,
❖ Type of work performed.
Contracts. Estimate contract totals using invoices and purchase orders. Any work contracted
beyond 70 hours of the event must be competitively bid in accordance with local, state, and federal
laws as well as FEMA regulations. Specifically, departments should collect the following
information:
❖ Copy of contract, scope of work, vendor purchase orders, invoices, payments; and,
❖ Explanation detailing the execution of the contract and procurement methodology.
Equipment. Estimate equipment costs using FEMA’s Schedule of Equipment Rates
(https://www.fema.gov/schedule-equipment-rates). Multiply the time spent using the equipment by
the rate assigned by FEMA. If the equipment is not listed, use a comparable rate to estimate the
total cost. Specifically, departments should collect the following information:
❖ Equipment operator (equipment must be tied to persons, dates, and times listed under labor);
❖ Date and hours of operation;
❖ Location and type of work;
❖ Damaged and destroyed equipment; and,
❖ Leased equipment.
Materials. Estimate costs of expendable materials and supplies using invoices and purchase
orders. Eligible materials include items purchased for the event or taken from an existing stockpile.
Specifically, departments should collect the following information:
❖ Date of purchase;
❖ Unit price;
❖ Number of units purchased; and,
❖ Function.
Physical Damage and Repairs. Estimate the cost of damages and necessary repairs. Damage
must exceed FEMA’s small project minimum to qualify11. Specifically, departments should collect
the following information:
11 Submissions must exceed the small project minimum of $3,100 (FY16) to qualify. The 2018 federal fiscal year extends from Oct. 1, 2017 through Sept. 30, 2018.
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❖ Detailed description of damage, location, and required restoration;
❖ Estimated repair cost;
❖ Photographs of the damage; and,
❖ Hazard mitigation opportunities.
RECORD KEEPING. Departments are encouraged to use in-house record-keeping systems
capable of tracking critical costs—labor, equipment, material, contracts, etc.—directly tied to the
disaster event.
PRE-DISASTER PROPERTY SURVEY. FEMA only reimburses for damages directly tied to the
disaster. Departments are encouraged to survey and document the pre-disaster condition of
facilities, infrastructure, and equipment in order to substantiate claims that damaged properties
were in good repair prior to the disaster. Examples of pre-disaster documentation include annual
bridge reports, photographs, and annual inspections.
CHECKLIST:
Document all costs associated with disaster preparations, response, and recovery.
Track and record labor costs.
Track and record disaster-related contracts and invoices.
Track and record deployed equipment and disaster-related function.
Track and record materials used, disaster-related function, and invoices.
Conduct pre-disaster surveys to support post-disaster property damage claims.
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PRELIMINARY DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS (PDA)
The Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) is a survey used to assess the scope of damages,
estimate costs incurred, and identify unmet needs. The results of the PDA are used to prove that
expenses exceed the PA threshold, and to support the request for federal assistance. The actions
below outline the steps required to complete a PDA.
COMPLETE THE OEM PDA SPREADSHEET. If Philadelphia experiences a significant event, OEM
requests disaster-related cost estimates from City departments and local PNPS. To submit these
cost estimates, City departments complete an OEM Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA)
Spreadsheet. This fillable OEM PDA Spreadsheet is distributed by OEM’s Recovery Planning
Coordinator to capture costs incurred for disaster-related work.
DESIGNATE A REPRESENTATIVE. Each City department must designate at least one
representative to complete the OEM PDA Spreadsheet. The representative(s) must be familiar with
departmental policies, grant administration, and fiscal management. If a Presidential Declaration is
issued and the PA program is activated, the representative(s) will be the primary individual(s)
responsible for coordinating all PA activities on behalf of the department.
SUBMIT AN IMPACT STATEMENT. OEM may ask City departments to submit—in addition to the
OEM PDA Spreadsheet—an impact statement. The statement from each City department is
combined into a citywide narrative outlining the effects of the disaster on local operations, in order
to support a Presidential Disaster Declaration12.
12 See Annex P: Sample Impact Statement for more information.
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SCHEDULE A SITE VISIT. OEM may contact your department to schedule a site visit with PEMA
and FEMA to assess disaster-damaged properties. Department representatives knowledgeable
about the costs of repair and extent of damages must meet OEM, PEMA, and FEMA personnel
onsite, as requested.
REQUEST FOR DISASTER DECLARATION. Once the OEM PDA spreadsheets are submitted,
OEM forwards the cost estimates to PEMA for review. PEMA, once reviewed, combines the City’s
estimates with other counties across the state. If the City and the State both exceed the FEMA
thresholds, the Request for Disaster Declaration process proceeds through the Governor. If the
President approves the request, a declaration is issued. Once declared, FEMA’s Public Assistance
program is activated.
CHECKLIST:
Submit disaster-related costs to OEM using the OEM PDA Spreadsheet.
Designate a department liaison to coordinate the PA process.
Submit an impact statement to OEM, if requested.
Coordinate with OEM to schedule site visits, if requested.
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APPLICANTS’ BRIEFING
Once a Presidential Disaster Declaration is issued, FEMA activates the PA program. In
coordination with PEMA and FEMA, OEM then schedules a mandatory Applicants’ Briefing. All
participating agencies are required to attend the briefing and sign the required PEMA and FEMA
forms13. City department representatives must include the designee(s) assigned during the PDA
process. At the conclusion of the Applicants’ Briefing, City departments sign-up for a one-on-one
Kickoff Meeting with PEMA and FEMA.
IDENTIFY INCIDENT PERIOD. The incident period, as determined by FEMA, is the strict timeframe
to which all disaster costs must be tied. While the incident period may span a series of days or
weeks, the City—as a single applicant—may be instructed to identify a smaller window of time
within FEMA’s incident period. For example, the City may be asked to select a 48-hour window
within a five-day incident period. In that case, all costs must be directly linked to the 48-hour
window. OEM is responsible for selecting the City’s timeframe, if required by PEMA and FEMA.
The timeframe is identified using the costliest window of time for the City as a whole, recognizing
13 Mandatory forms include the DAP-1 (Annex A), DAP-2 (Annex B), and Request for Public Assistance (Annex C). OEM completes the mandatory forms on behalf of all City departments as a single Applicant.
The Applicants’ Briefing—conducted by PEMA and/or FEMA—addresses eligibility
criteria, administrative procedures, the disaster’s incident period, and Project
Worksheet (PW) development. The briefing provides an opportunity for City agencies
to ask PEMA and FEMA specialists questions about the program and process.
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that the dates/hours may not reflect each individual department’s most expensive operational
period.
ELIGIBLE WORK CATEGORIES. Depending on the type and magnitude of the disaster, FEMA
may only activate parts of the Public Assistance program. Types of eligible work fall under two
categories: emergency work and/or permanent work. Both categories are broken down into a
series of sub-categories, which may be activated independently of one another. PEMA and FEMA
representatives disclose the activated categories of work during the Applicants’ Briefing. Refer to
the following table for more information on the categories—and sub-categories—of work.
Category Description
Emergency Work
(complete within six months of the disaster declaration)
A
Debris Removal – The clearance, removal, and/or disposal of items such as
trees, sand, gravel, building materials, wreckage, vehicles, and personal
property.
B
Emergency Protective Measures – Necessary activities taken by a
community before, during, and after a disaster to eliminate or reduce an
immediate threat to life, public health and safety, or improved property.
Permanent Work
(complete within 18 months of the disaster declaration)
C Roads and Bridges – Repair of roads, bridges, and associated features such
as surfaces, bases, shoulders, ditches, culverts, guardrail, lighting, etc.
D
Water Control Facilities – Repair of facilities built for channel alignment,
recreation, navigation, land reclamation, fish and wildlife habitats, interior
drainage, irrigation, erosion prevention, and flood control.
E Buildings and Equipment – Repair or replacement of buildings, including
their contents and systems, heavy equipment, and vehicles.
F Utilities – Repair of water treatment and delivery systems, power generation
facilities/distribution lines, and sewage collection/treatment facilities.
G Parks, Recreational Facilities, and Other Items – Repair and restoration of
parks, playgrounds, pools, cemeteries, and beaches.
CHECKLIST:
RSVP to OEM to confirm attendance.
Send at least one representative, including the departmental designee established during the
PDA process, to the Applicants’ Briefing.
Record the incident period and, if applicable, the City-specific window.
Adjust documentation and costs to reflect the incident period/City-specific window, if applicable,
to ensure all costs are linked to the eligible dates/hours.
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Record the eligible categories of work.
Adjust documentation and estimates to reflect activities that fall within the activated categories
of work.
Schedule a Kickoff Meeting with PEMA and FEMA at the conclusion of the briefing.
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KICKOFF MEETING
Kickoff Meetings for each City department are scheduled at the conclusion of the Applicants’
Briefing. To confirm meeting dates/times, OEM sends an email to all department designees
outlining the meeting details. During the Kickoff, departments review costs, damages, and required
documentation with PEMA and FEMA specialists. The goal of the meeting is to initiate the
development of each department’s Project Worksheet(s) (PW).
KICKOFF MEETING PREPARATION. Department representatives should come to the scheduled
Kickoff Meeting ready to discuss costs, damages, and questions. To properly prepare for the
Kickoff Meeting, departments should:
❖ Review OEM’s sample Kickoff Meeting Agenda, for reference14.
❖ Compile a list departmental costs and damages within the designated incident period, and
provide supporting documentation (i.e. purchase orders, contracts, invoices, etc.).
❖ Identify circumstances that may require special review, including environmental and historic
preservation issues.
❖ Prepare questions and concerns to discuss with OEM, PEMA, and FEMA.
14 See Annex D for a sample Kickoff Agenda.
The Kickoff Meeting is a one-on-one discussion between department designees and
PEMA/FEMA representatives. The meeting is designed to provide a detailed review of
the PA Program, and to address each department’s specific needs.
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RECEIVE AND COMPLETE FORMS. At the Kickoff Meeting, OEM provides an excel spreadsheet
for each department to complete. OEM’s PW Workbook contains forms and information required
by PEMA and FEMA (DAP-5, DAP-6, DAP-8, etc.)15 in an electronic format. For questions related
to the PW development process, contact OEM’s Recovery Planning Coordinator.
CHECKLIST:
Schedule and confirm a Kickoff Meeting with OEM, PEMA, and FEMA.
Bring a list of departmental costs and damages with supporting documentation.
Receive OEM’s PW Workbook to support worksheet.
Compile a list of questions and concerns to discuss directly with PEMA and FEMA Specialists.
15 See Annex E for required PEMA/FEMA forms. City departments should use OEM’s electronic PW Workbook in place of the PDF forms.
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PROJECT WORKSHEET DEVELOPMENT
Following the Kickoff Meeting, City departments begin Project Worksheet (PW) development
activities. The PW outlines the essential information—who, what, when, where, why, and cost—for
each item of disaster recovery work. Depending on the disaster, the City may have a single PW or
a series of PWs. Each agency’s designee is responsible for compiling and submitting costs,
damages, and supporting documentation to OEM’s Recovery Planning Coordinator by the
established deadline. All costs must fall within the incident period’s date(s) and hours, as
well as the categories of work activated by FEMA. PW support is available to City departments
from OEM and/or PEMA and FEMA.
PROJECT TYPES. To facilitate reimbursement, FEMA divides projects into four types. The
procedures for processing PWs, funding, and deadlines vary according to project type. For more
information, refer to the table below.
A Project Worksheet (PW) documents the scope of work and itemizes the costs of
each recovery project. The approved PW is the basis for federal funding.
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PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Small
Projects
Projects with repair or replacement costs ranging from $3,100 to $121,800 (FY16)16.
The federal share for small projects is paid upon PW approval.
Large
Projects
Projects with repair or replacement costs in excess of $121,800 (FY16)17. The federal
cost share is paid on a progress basis, as the work is complete. Final payments are
based on actual costs.
Improved
Projects18
With prior FEMA and PEMA approval, departments may restore a facility back to the
pre-disaster function with improvements, for which the department is financially
responsible. Funding is limited to the federal share of the project’s estimated cost.
Additional hazard mitigation funds may be available through the Hazard Mitigation
Grant Program (HMGP).
Alternate
Project19
With FEMA and PEMA approval, departments may alter a damaged facility from the
pre-disaster condition if the public welfare would not be best served by the repair,
restoration, or reconstruction of the damaged area. Changes to the site may require
an Environmental Assessment. Alternate projects are subject to reduced FEMA
funding from the original project estimate.
PROJECT WORKSHEET DEVELOPMENT. Department designees should compile and record
eligible costs in the electronic OEM PW Workbook. Depending on the scale and magnitude of the
City’s projects, a FEMA specialist may schedule a PW Development Meeting to discuss grant
management efforts in-person. If a department has a large number of complex projects, FEMA
may choose to assign a staff member to the agency for a sustained length of time. Departments
may be responsible for developing PWs independently, especially for small projects. To develop a
PW, departments should track and record costs tied to the activated categories of work. See below
for more information on eligible costs.
ELIGIBLE COSTS
EMERGENCY WORK (Categories A-B) PERMANENT WORK (Categories C-G)
Force account labor (overtime hours including
benefits for full time and/or reassigned
employees).
Force account labor (regular and overtime
hours, including benefits).
Force account labor (regular and overtime
hours for temporary employees).
All working hours for force account equipment.
All working hours for force account equipment. Materials.
Materials. Reasonable contract costs.
Reasonable contract costs. Rental equipment costs.
Rental equipment costs. Repair costs.
16 The threshold is updated annually. The federal fiscal year 2018 rates are effective October 1st, 2017 – September 20th, 2018. 17 Ibid. 18 See Annex F: Request for Improved Project (DAP-14) 19 See Annex G: Request for Alternate Project
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Documented donated resources. Effective hazard mitigation measures.
Direct administrative costs (DAC). Direct administrative costs (DAC)
Force Account Labor
❖ Employees (full time, part time, volunteers): Name, job title, date(s) worked, hours worked
per day (regular and overtime), hourly wages, and total cost incurred.
Labor rates include actual wages paid plus fringe benefits paid or credited. Contact OEM’s
Recovery Planning Coordinator for updated fringe rates. Supporting documentation includes
copies of employees’ timesheets and departmental overtime policies.
Force Account Equipment
❖ Equipment details: Year, Make, Model, HP, and capacity.
❖ Equipment deployment: Date(s) used, operators name(s), hours used per day, FEMA
equipment rate, and total cost incurred.
Refer to the FEMA Equipment Rate tab in the OEM PW Workbook or FEMA’s website
(https://www.fema.gov/schedule-equipment-rates) for updated pricing information. Equipment
standby and idle time are ineligible and should be excluded from the OEM PW Workbook.
Supporting documentation includes equipment logs and timesheets for personnel assigned
to the piece of equipment.
Force Account Materials
❖ Description of materials, unit price, quantity used, and total cost incurred.
Eligible materials may be taken from existing stockpiles or purchased specifically for the
disaster. Department’s must provide copies of invoices to support pricing. If invoices are
unavailable, departments must contact area vendors to identify a price point. Proof of payment,
once complete, must be provided for reimbursement. Supporting documentation includes
invoices and/or purchase orders.
Rental Equipment
❖ Description of equipment rented, quantity, and total cost incurred.
Supply a copy of the rental agreement to support the equipment claim. Proof of payment, once
complete, must be provided for reimbursement. Supporting documentation includes copies of
rental and/or lease agreements.
Contracts
❖ Description of service and total cost incurred.
Contracts must be of reasonable cost, selected through a competitive bid process, and comply
with local, state, and federal procurement standards. Proof of payment, once complete, must
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be provided for reimbursement. Supporting documentation includes copies of signed contract
documents including bid documentation and/or mutual aid agreements.
Damage Information
❖ Facility: Basic function, location, and pre-disaster condition.
❖ Description: Cause and the dimensions or components damaged.
❖ Scope of work: Describe the eligible work necessary to repair the damage as an action with
quantifiable (i.e. length, width, depth, capacity, etc.) and descriptive (i.e. brick, wood,
asphalt, timber deck bridge, etc.) terms.
❖ Cost to perform approved repairs.
Departments should also include any information pertinent to the scope of work including
references to the Hazard Mitigation Proposal, if applicable. Supporting documentation should
include photographs of damage, pre-disaster inspections, and relevant codes and standards
required if repairs exceed the pre-disaster design. Supporting documentation includes
photographs, pre- and post-disaster inspections, maps, and floorplans.
Change in Pre-Disaster Condition
❖ Note whether changes from the damaged site or facility pre-disaster condition will be made.
Coordinate with OEM and/or the FEMA specialist to seek approval for an Improved Project
or Hazard Mitigation funding.
Approval is required to change a site or facility including an increase or decrease in size,
change in function, or modifications to building components and materials. If the pre-disaster
conditions can be changed to prevent or reduce future disaster-relate damage, discuss Hazard
Mitigation opportunities with OEM and/or FEMA.
Special Considerations
❖ Endangered Species: Departments must take precaution and be aware of any endangered
species near a project site.
❖ Historic Preservation: Properties eligible for the National Register of Historic Places—
usually any facility over 50 years—requires special consideration under the National Historic
Preservation Act.
❖ Environmental Requirements: Ensure all practical means are used to protect, restore, and
enhance the environment. If the project alters the “footprint” of a facility, or if it is located in a
wetland, affects air/water quality, endangered species, flora, or fauna, the department must
adhere to all applicable rules and regulations.
❖ Floodplain Management: Any project within or affecting the floodplain must be reviewed to
ensure that it meets the requirements of the Executive Order on Floodplain Management
and the Protection of Wetlands.
❖ Insurance: Actual or anticipated insurance proceeds will be deducted from the eligible
project costs for insured facilities.
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To avoid a delay in funding, ensure PWs disclose all special considerations associated with
repair, reconstruction, and restoration efforts.
Direct Administrative Costs (DAC)
❖ Employee name (regular time and overtime), date of work, hours of work, description of
work (i.e. compiling staff rosters, coordinating with vendors, printing PW materials, etc.),
and total costs incurred.
Department designees are encouraged to submit costs associated with PA administrative
duties. Designees should record hours, dates, and work conducted to include in the project’s
PW. Any activities performed following the Kickoff Meeting are eligible for DAC.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION. Departments must provide supporting documentation to
substantiate submitted expenses. Accurate documentation expedites project approval, funding,
and recovery.
ORGANIZING PROJECT WORKSHEETS. Depending on the number and complexity of projects,
each department may develop a series of PWs. The table below outlines the potential methods of
organization for a PW. Each department may choose the structure that works best for the
individual projects. A FEMA representative, in coordination with OEM, works with each department
to ensure PWs are logical and consistent with the criteria outlined below.
Method Explanation
Specific Site All work conducted at single site (i.e. Kelly Drive).
Specific Facility All work conducted on a single facility (i.e. Falls Bridge).
Damage Type All work conducted under a single Category A-G (i.e. debris removal).
System All work conducted on a single system (i.e. water distribution).
Boundaries /
Agency
All work conducted within a specific area (i.e. Fairmount Park), or within a
single department (i.e. Philadelphia Fire Department).
Method of Work All work conducted using the same method (i.e. contractors, force account
labor, etc.).
Complex Work conducted at several facilities at a single complex (i.e. High School).
Special
Considerations
Work conducted on facilities with unique concerns (i.e. environmental
resource, historic building, etc.).
SITE VISITS. To validate damage claims, FEMA and PEMA may require an in-person assessment.
The inspection is scheduled through OEM with departmental liaisons. To guide the visit,
departments must provide a representative—knowledgeable about the facility, function, and
needed repairs—to support the PEMA and FEMA specialists’ assessment.
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CHECKLIST:
Compile all cost and damage documentation in one location.
Contact OEM to discuss scheduling a PW Development Meeting with FEMA.
Prepare PW(s). Remember to:
Organize PWs by category and project.
Capture all eligible costs associated with each PW.
Provide supporting documentation.
Provide a detailed damage description and scope of work for repair, restoration,
and/or reconstruction needs.
Provide cost estimates and explanations for incomplete work.
Calculate direct administrative costs.
Double check work to ensure costs are accurate in order to expedite approval and
support future federal/state audits and financial reviews.
Discuss options and procedures for improved projects, alternate projects, and hazard mitigation
opportunities with OEM and FEMA.
Submit PW(s) to OEM’s Recovery Planning Coordinator for an internal review.
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INTERNAL REVIEW PROCESS
Once the PWs are developed, departments submit all documents to OEM to forward to PEMA.
PEMA reviews the documentation and pass the information up to FEMA. If there are any
outstanding issues or questions, FEMA provides a list of requests to each department. Once
FEMA is satisfied with the information provided, a draft PW is sent to OEM for review.
INTERNAL REVIEW. To ensure all eligible costs are accurate and properly substantiated with
supporting documentation, the City—lead by OEM—conducts an internal PW review. Depending
on the number and scale of each department’s PW, the Director of Emergency Management
(DEM) or the City’s Managing Director (MD) conducts the internal review. Once approved, the
DEM or MD signs the PWs on behalf of the departments and return the final drafts to PEMA and
FEMA.
CHECKLIST:
Submit PWs and supporting documentation to OEM.
Respond to any inquiries from FEMA or OEM regarding outstanding documentation.
The internal review ensures all costs are accurately reflected and substantiated with
supporting documentation.
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SMALL PROJECT VALIDATION, OBLIGATION, AND CLOSEOUT
SMALL PROJECT VALIDATION. FEMA initiates the small project validation process once all small
projects are submitted, or following a large number of submissions. FEMA reviews a 20 percent
sample of the City’s small projects. If the sample meets FEMA’s criteria, the full package of small
projects is approved. However, if the assessment finds significant discrepancies, a second sample
is reviewed.
The small project validation process confirms the PW is complete, scope of work is
accurate, work is eligible, and costs are reasonable.
Since all City departments apply for PA as a single applicant, the validation sample is taken across
a pool of every department’s projects. If necessary, FEMA may schedule a validation meeting in
coordination with OEM. Only departments with projects selected for the sample must attend the
meeting. If selected, FEMA reviews the PW including cost records, estimates, measurements,
pictures, and any supporting documentation related to the project. All departments are responsible
for substantiating claimed costs; any failure to provide project support may result in the
disqualification of the entire sample. If your department is requested to participate in the small
project validation meeting, please review the FEMA’s Validation Worksheet20 to prepare.
City departments are encouraged to submit small project PWs as early as possible. OEM’s
Recovery Planning Coordinator and/or FEMA and PEMA specialists provide guidance pertaining to
20 See Annex H: Validation Worksheet
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deadlines. Any small projects submitted 60 days after the Kickoff Meeting are validated and
obligated on an individual basis.
SMALL PROJECT OBLIGATION. Once FEMA validates the City’s small projects, the approved
funds are obligated. Payments for small projects are made at the time of approval on the basis of
the amount listed on the PW, whether estimated or actual. Once approved, FEMA obligates the
federal share21 to PEMA. Once received, PEMA notifies OEM’s Recovery Planning Coordinator
that the funding is available and coordinates the electronic transfer into the City’s General Fund.
Depending on a number of circumstances, the Managing Director’s Office may elect to return
reimbursements back to each department. This decision is generally made by the city’s executive
leadership team, and will vary by event.
SMALL PROJECT CLOSEOUT. Once all small projects are complete22, departments submit a
Small Project Closeout Form23 to OEM. A completed project means that all work described in the
PW’s Scope of Work has been performed and paid. To close out the grant, departments must
provide proof of payment for contractor invoices and purchase orders. The Small Project Closeout
Form should be submitted no later than one month following the completion deadline.
Projects are considered closed out once FEMA determines both PEMA and the City have
completed all required grant work, and that internal FEMA specialists have completed all
necessary administrative actions.
If a department does not complete the scope of work as outlined in the PW within the established
timeframe, FEMA de-obligates the project. If de-obligated, the City must return the project’s funds
to FEMA.
Once all departments have completed all small projects and submitted the Small Project Closeout
Form, OEM submits a DAP-1224 to PEMA. The form certifies that all small projects—citywide—are
complete and funds are expended.
SMALL PROJECT COST ADJUSTMENTS. If a project’s actual cost is less than the amount listed
on the PW, the City is not required to return the surplus. However, if the cost to complete all small
projects is significantly greater than the total amount approved, departments may ask OEM to
appeal to FEMA for additional funding. For more information, refer to the Appeals section.
21 The federal share of eligible costs is no less than 75 percent, and up to 100 percent. The state may opt to cover the remaining costs, but are not required to contribute. 22 To be complete, all activities outlined in the scope of work must be finished and paid out. For more information on deadlines, refer to the Time Limits and Extensions section. 23 See Annex I: Small Project Closeout Form. 24 See Annex J: DAP-12 Completed Project Listing and Claim for Reimbursement.
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CHECKLIST:
Participate in the small project validation process, if requested.
Review the Validation Worksheet and collect the necessary documentation, if selected for the
small project validation.
Complete the activities outlined in the scope of work for all small projects.
Payout all invoices and purchase orders associated with each small project.
Submit a Small Project Closeout Form to OEM with proof of payment and other supporting
documentation, as requested.
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LARGE PROJECT VALIDATION AND CLOSEOUT
LARGE PROJECT VALIDATION. Large projects are typically developed directly with FEMA.
Therefore, unlike small projects, large projects do not require a sample validation.
LARGE PROJECT OBLIGATION. Because large projects are reimbursed based on actual costs
and not estimates, project funding is processed on a progress payment basis. To request a
payment for a large project, the department must prove that the work being reimbursed is complete
and paid off. Departments are required to submit regular status updates (DAP-1125) outlining
project progress and current expenditures. Any invoices or requests for funds (DAP-926) must be
submitted with the progress report. The maximum amount departments may request over the
course of the project may not exceed 75% of the approved PW amount. Once the DAP-11 and
DAP-9 forms are submitted, OEM compiles and send the documentation to PEMA. As the work is
completed and paid, FEMA transfers the reimbursement electronically to the city through PEMA.
The obligation procedures continues until the project is complete, and FEMA has paid out of the
full 75% cost-share. As with small projects, FEMA funds are transferred electronically to the City’s
General Fund. Depending on a number of circumstances, the Managing Director’s Office may elect
to return reimbursements back to each department. This decision is generally made by the city’s
executive leadership team, and will vary by event.
LARGE PROJECT CLOSEOUT. Unlike small projects—which are closed when all projects are
complete—large projects are closed out on an individual basis. Once a large project is complete,
25 See Annex K: DAP-11 Form (Large Project Status Report) 26 See Annex L: DAP-9 Form (Request for Large Project Reimbursement)
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departments notify OEM and submit a DAP-1227 with documentation validating the actual cost of
work. The DAP-12 serves as the final request for payment for large projects, and is signed by the
City’s Applicants’ Agent.
LARGE PROJECT COST ADJUSTMENTS. Unlike small projects, the reimbursements for large
projects are adjusted to reflect the actual cost of work. Once a large project is complete, PEMA
compares the final costs against the amount paid by FEMA. The results of the review are
forwarded to FEMA for any necessary funding adjustments.
CHECKLIST:
Submit Large Project Status Reports (DAP-11) to OEM for each large project in accordance
with the established deadline.
Submit a Reimbursement Request (DAP-9) to OEM once a portion of a large project is
complete (at least $10,000 worth of work).
Complete the scope of work for every approved large project.
Pay all invoices and submit proof of payment to OEM along with the required DAP forms.
Submit a Project Closeout Form (DAP-12) to OEM once a large project is complete.
Ensure all projects are closed out by the established deadline.
27 See Annex J: DAP-12 Form (Complete Project Listing and Claim for Reimbursement)
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TIME LIMITS AND EXTENSIONS
Depending on the category of work, projects must be completed within a set time from the date of
the disaster declaration. All emergency work—categories A-B—must be complete within six
months, and permanent work—categories C-G—must be complete within 18 months. OEM may
request extensions from PEMA based on extenuating circumstances or unusual project
requirements beyond the City’s control. As outlined below, PEMA may extend emergency work an
additional six months, and permanent work may be extended an additional 30 months.
Category Regulatory
Deadline
PEMA Time
Extension Authority
Total Time
Allowed
Emergency Work
Categories A - B 6 Months 6 Months 12 Months
Permanent Work
Categories C - G 18 Months 30 Months 48 Months
REQUEST AN EXTENSION. To request a project extension, departments must submit a Request
for Time Extension form (DAP-15)28 to OEM prior to the designated deadline. OEM forwards the
request to PEMA. PEMA may grant a pre-approved extension if there are no changes to the cost
or scope of work. If departments require extensions beyond PEMA’s pre-approved extensions—six
and 30 months—PEMA may forward the request to FEMA to assess and determine whether to
grant an extension and, if approved, provide the revised time limits.
CHECKLIST:
Complete all emergency work—categories A and B—within six months.
Complete all permanent work—categories C-G—within 18 months.
Submit a Request for Time Extension form (DAP-15) to OEM, if necessary.
28 See Annex M: DAP-15 Request for Time Extension
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CHANGE OF SCOPE
While completing an approved project, a department may discover hidden damages, the need for
additional work, or an increase in expenses beyond the estimate listed on the PW. As soon as
potential changes to the scope of work or cost are identified, departments must notify OEM. All
changes to an approved scope of work, or PW estimate, must be reviewed and granted by FEMA.
The approval process for altering work varies according to project type.
CHANGING LARGE PROJECTS. If a project’s work or cost differs from the approved PW,
departments must submit a Change of Scope Form29 to OEM. In addition to the form, departments
must provide supporting documentation to justify the eligibility of the work and/or costs. Once
received, OEM forwards the request to PEMA and FEMA for consideration. If necessary, PEMA
and FEMA may require a site visit to issue a determination. Once a decision is made, FEMA
provides PEMA and OEM with an amended PW or a written denial.
CHANGING SMALL PROJECTS. Small projects do not generally require a request for change
unless the total cost for all small projects citywide significantly exceeds the approved expenses.
However, if there is a gross error or omission in a small project’s scope of work, departments
should submit a Change of Scope Form30 to OEM. FEMA does not typically conduct cost
adjustments for small projects as costs underruns are usually offset by project overruns. Therefore,
departments may only submit an appeal for additional funding if the City as a whole has
significantly underestimated all small project expenses. If appropriate, OEM submits a request to
PEMA within 60 days of the final small project’s completion.
CHECKLIST:
Submit a Change of Scope Form to OEM for large projects requiring a change to approved
work or costs.
Provide supporting documentation to justify the change in scope for a large project.
Submit a Change of Scope Form to OEM for small projects with gross errors or omissions in
the approved PW.
29 See Annex N: Change of Scope Form 30 See Annex N: Change of Scope Form
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APPEALS
If a department wishes to contest a FEMA ruling, the City can submit an appeal. Appeals may
address a variety of decisions including facility eligibility, costs, time extensions, scopes of work,
and/or significant project overruns. Departments interested in appealing a decision should contact
OEM to discuss next steps.
REQUEST AN APPEAL. If the decision to appeal is made, departments must submit an Appeal
Request Form31 to OEM no later than 50 days from the receipt of FEMA’s decision. The form must
also accompany a written narrative explaining the reason for the contestation, and the adjustment
being requested. Any documentation including photographs, correspondence, contracts, insurance
policies, etc. supporting the appeal must also be included. The FEMA Regional Administrator
reviews the request and render a decision within 90 days of receipt. Should FEMA request
additional information to support the ruling, departments will have 60 days to provide the necessary
documentation.
GRANTED APPEALS. If approved, FEMA adjusts projects, obligates additional funding, or sends a
Project Specialist to meet with relevant department(s) to discuss future actions.
DENIED APPEALS. If an appeal is denied, departments may submit a second appeal in
accordance with the procedures outlined above. Second appeals are forwarded—with a
recommendation for action—from the FEMA Regional Administrator to FEMA Headquarters. FEMA
HQ reviews the appeal and renders a decision within 90 days of receipt.
SMALL PROJECT APPEALS. The City may submit an appeal for additional funding if the total cost
for small projects citywide significantly exceeds the amount approved. If applicable, departments
must check the appropriate box on the Small Project Closeout Form.32 If the City as a whole
incurred significant net overruns, OEM submits an appeal to PEMA within 60 days of the last small
project’s completion.
CHECKLIST:
Contact OEM with questions or concerns regarding a decision made by FEMA.
Submit an Appeal Request Form, and supporting documentation, no later than 50 days from
the receipt of FEMA’s decision.
Provide OEM with a written narrative outlining the reasons for the appeal and the adjustment(s)
requested.
31 See Annex O: Appeal Request Form 32 See Annex I: Small Project Closeout Form
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PUBLIC ASSISTANCE WORKBOOK
REFERENCE GUIDE FOR CITY DEPARTMENTS
Please contact OEM’s Recovery Planning Coordinator with any questions related to Public
Assistance. OEM is available to provide PA support and policy guidance before, during, and
after a disaster.
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ANNEXES
ANNEX A: DAP-1 Designation of Agency Resolution…………………………… 28
ANNEX B: DAP-2 Public Disaster Assistance Agreement……………………… 29
ANNEX C: Request for Public Assistance (RPA) Form………………………..... 30
ANNEX D: Sample Kickoff Meeting Agenda……………………………………..... 31
ANNEX E: Project Worksheet Forms (DAP-5, DAP-6, DAP-8)………………..... 32
ANNEX F: DAP-14 Request for Improved Project………………………………... 36
ANNEX G: Request for Alternate Project………………………………………….. 37
ANNEX H: Validation Worksheet…………………………………………………..... 38
ANNEX I: Small Project Closeout…………………………………………………… 40
ANNEX J: DAP-11 Large Project Closeout………………………………………… 42
ANNEX K: DAP-9 Request for Reimbursement…………………………………… 43
ANNEX L: DAP-12 Completed Project Listing & Claim for Reimbursement… 44
ANNEX M: DAP-15 Request for Time Extension…………………………………. 47
ANNEX N: Change of Scope Form………………………………………………….. 48
ANNEX O: Appeal Request Form……………………………………………………. 49
ANNEX P: Sample Impact Statement……………………………………………….. 50
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ANNEX A: DAP-1 DESIGNATION OF AGENCY RESOLUTION
PEMA’s DAP-1 form designates the City’s Applicant’s Agent. All City departments apply for Public
Assistance as a single Applicant, under the authority of a single Agent. The Applicant’s Agent is the
Director of Emergency Management, Managing Director, or designee. The Office of Emergency
Management completes the DAP-1 Form on behalf of all City departments.
Fillable PDF:
http://www.pema.pa.gov/about/publicinformation/Documents/Other%20Public%20Assistance%20Forms/DAP-
01%20Form%20Designation%20of%20Applicants%20Agent.pdf.
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ANNEX B: DAP-2 PUBLIC DISASTER ASSISTANCE APPLICATION
PEMA’s DAP-2 form constitutes the PA Disaster Assistance Agreement between the State and City.
The Office of Emergency Management completes the DAP-2 form on behalf of all City departments.
Fillable PDF:
http://www.pema.pa.gov/about/publicinformation/Documents/Other%20Public%20Assistance%20Forms/DAP-
02%20Form%20Public%20Assistance%20Application%20and%20Agreement%20for%20Financial%20Assistanc
e.pdf.
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ANNEX C: REQUEST FOR PUBLIC ASSISTANCE FORM
FEMA’s Request for Public Assistance (RPA) form initiates the applicant’s entrance into the Public
Assistance program. The Office of Emergency Management completes the RPA form on behalf of
all City departments.
Fillable PDF:
https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1606-20490-0072/90_049.pdf
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ANNEX D: SAMPLE KICKOFF MEETING AGENDA
The Kickoff Meeting is a one-on-one discussion between department designees and PEMA/FEMA
representatives. The meeting is designed to provide a detailed review of the PA program, and to
address each department’s specific needs. To prepare for the Kickoff, departments should review
the agenda below.
Public Assistance Kickoff Meeting
Meeting Agenda
Agenda Item Note/Actions
1. Introductions Department Representative, OEM, Finance, PEMA, FEMA
2. Overview
Incident Dates
Eligibility
Documentation
3. Labor Costs
• Permanent Employees-
Overtime
• Temporary Employees
• Fringe Benefits
Provide FEMA with payroll records, overtime policy, and a sampling
of employee timesheets.
Capture the total eligible labor costs that your organization incurred
(including Fringe).
Straight time costs not eligible for permanent employees.
4. Equipment
• FEMA Equipment Schedule
FEMA rates are inclusive of fuel, usage, insurance, etc.
Equipment needs to be tied to an operator
5. Materials
• Used Inventory
• Food, Vouchers
Provide FEMA with receipts or invoices for materials used during the
incident period.
6. Contracts Demonstrate that correct contract bidding procedures were followed
Provide FEMA with a copy of contracts
7. Administration Administrative time for work on Public Assistance application may be
eligible.
8. Permanent Work
Identify projects for permanent work.
Review cost estimating and documentation procedures for large
projects.
Review special considerations.
9. Hazard Mitigation Identify potential measures to eliminate future damages.
10. Identify Action Items and Next
Steps
Contact FEMA to set up Project Worksheet development meeting.
Also notify OEM.
Review Internal Review Process
Additional Notes
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ANNEX E: DAP-5, DAP-6, DAP-8 PROJECT WORKSHEET FORMS
To accurately track and record costs related to labor, equipment, materials, and contracts,
departments must complete the following forms. OEM’s PDA and PW Development Workbooks
includes electronic versions of each required form. Depending on the event, departments may be
required to submit additional DAP forms as requested by PEMA and FEMA.
Fillable PDFs:
http://www.pema.pa.gov/about/publicinformation/Pages/Other-Public-Assistance-Forms.aspx#.WPef54jytaT
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ANNEX F: DAP-14 REQUEST FOR IMPROVED PROJECT
With prior approval, departments may restore a facility back to pre-disaster function with
improvements for which the department is financially responsible. Funding is limited to the federal
share of the project’s estimated cost. Complete the form below to request an Improved Project.
Fillable PDF:
http://www.pema.pa.gov/about/publicinformation/Documents/Other%20Public%20Assistance%20Forms/DAP-
14%20Form%20Request%20for%20Improved%20Project.pdf
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ANNEX G: REQUEST FOR ALTERNATE PROJECT
To request an Alternate Project, complete and submit the following form to OEM’s Recovery
Planning Coordinator within 11 months of the initial Kickoff Meeting. PEMA and FEMA must grant
approval prior to construction.
Request for Alternate Project
Department:
PW Number:
Category of Work: ☐ C ☐ D ☐ E ☐ F ☐ G
Description of proposed alternate project:
Proposed plan for original damaged facility:
Estimated cost of the proposed alternate project:
Estimated cost of the repair/replacement as shown in the PW:
Source of funding above Public Assistance Grant:
Work to be performed by: (check one)
☐ Contract ☐ Own Employees and Equipment ☐ Both
Estimated date that the above project will be completed:
Signature of Department Representative: Date of Request
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ANNEX H: VALIDATION WORKSHEET
To validate small project costs, FEMA assesses a 20 percent sample of small projects citywide.
The following form outlines FEMA’s small project validation process.
Fillable PDF:
https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1608-20490-1108/90_118.pdf
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ANNEX I: SMALL PROJECT CLOSEOUT FORM
Once all work outlined in the PW scope of work has been performed and paid for, the project is
considered complete. The Small Project Closeout Form should be submitted no later than one month
following the completion deadline.
Small Project Closeout
Department: Declaration No:
Department Representative:
I certify:
That all expenditures listed below are correct and cover only services performed or materials used
exclusively in the completion of work as authorized in the approved Project Worksheets.
That all work authorized in the approved Project Worksheets was completed and all essential
services resumed within the established time limits by the Governor’s Authorized Representative.
Those salaries, wages, and overtime payments claimed are in accordance with the applicant’s policy
as established prior to the disaster.
That the actual cost incurred and claimed is the net cost after deduction for insurance proceeds,
salvage value, donations, and other outside sources.
That all obligations incurred by the applicant, as listed below, have been paid in full.
_______________________________________
Signature of Department Representative
______________________________________
Date
Category PW No. Description of Work /
Documentation
Breakout of
Costs
PW Approved
Amount
Net Actual
Costs Incurred
(Claim) PW
Total
Page 1 of 2
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Small Project Closeout
Department: Declaration No:
Department Representative:
Category PW No. Description of Work /
Documentation
Breakout of
Costs
PW Approved
Amount
Net Actual
Costs Incurred
(Claim) PW
Total
Final Summary by Category
Category PW Approved Amount Claimed Amount
A $ $
B $ $
C $ $
D $ $
E $ $
F $ $
G $ $
TOTAL $ $
Department Representative – Please check the appropriate box below
Actual costs to complete the approved work exceeded the approved amount and additional funding is
requested. An appeal letter and supporting documentation are attached.
OR
The approved amount is satisfactory and no additional funding is requested. Please closeout these subgrants.
Page 2 of 2
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ANNEX J: DAP-12 COMPLETED PROJECT LISTING & CLAIM FOR REIMBURSEMENT
Once a large project is complete, departments submit the following form and documentation
validating the actual cost of work. The DAP-12 serves as the final request for payment, and is signed
by the City’s Applicants’ Agent. This form indicates the City has received the full federal cost-share
listed on the approved PW.
Fillable PDF:
http://www.pema.pa.gov/about/publicinformation/Documents/Other%20Public%20Assistance%20Forms/DAP-
12%20Form%20Completed%20Project%20Listing%20and%20Claim%20for%20Reimbursement%20Form.pdf
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ANNEX K: DAP-11 LARGE PROJECT STATUS REPORT
Large projects are funded according to the actual cost. As such, the obligation of funds is made on
a progress payment basis. Departments are required to submit regular status updates—monthly or
quarterly, as requested—outlining project progress and current expenditures to OEM.
Fillable PDF:
http://www.pema.pa.gov/about/publicinformation/Documents/Other%20Public%20Assistance%20Forms/DAP-
11%20Form%20Quarterly%20Large%20Project%20Status%20Report.pdf
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ANNEX L: DAP-9 REQUEST FOR REIMBURSEMENT
The minimum amount a department can request for large project reimbursement at one time is
$10,000. The maximum amount departments may request over the course of the project may not
exceed 75% of the approved PW amount.
Fillable PDF:
http://www.pema.pa.gov/about/publicinformation/Documents/Other%20Public%20Assistance%20Forms/DAP-
09%20Form%20Request%20for%20Reimbursement%20(Large%20Project).pdf
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ANNEX M: DAP-15 REQUEST FOR TIME EXTENSION
Submit the following form to OEM prior to the project deadline. PEMA may grant a pre-approved
extension if there are no changes to the cost or scope of work. If departments require extensions
beyond PEMA’s pre-approved extensions, FEMA can assess and determine whether to grant an
extension and provide the revised time limits.
Fillable PDF:
http://www.pema.pa.gov/about/publicinformation/Documents/Other%20Public%20Assistance%20Forms/DAP-
15%20Form%20Request%20for%20Time%20Extension.pdf
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ANNEX N: CHANGE OF SCOPE FORM
To request a change of scope for an approved PW, complete and submit the following form to OEM’s
Recovery Planning Coordinator.
Request for Change of Scope
Department:
PW Number:
Type of Work: ☐ Emergency ☐ Permanent
Category of Work: ☐ A ☐ B ☐ C ☐ D ☐ E ☐ F ☐ G
Original PW Amount: New PW Amount:
Reason(s) for Change of Scope:
Is the additional work or cost related to the disaster? If so, how?
Supporting documents (justifying additional work and/or costs) are attached? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Signature of Department Representative:
Date of Request:
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ANNEX O: APPEAL REQUEST FORM
To request an appeal from FEMA, complete submit the following form to OEM’s Recovery Planning
Coordinator within 50 days of receipt of the original decision.
Appeal Request
Department:
Decision to be Appealed:
Date of Original Decision:
Provide a narrative below that addresses why your department is contesting the decision:
Amount of adjustment requested (if applicable):
Supporting documentation (photos, plans, correspondence, contracts, insurance policies, etc.,
as needed to justify request for appeal) is attached? ☐ Yes ☐ No
Signature of Department Representative:
Date of Request:
Public Assistance Workbook Guide For City Departments
Page | 58
ANNEX P: SAMPLE IMPACT STATEMENT
To support a Presidential Disaster Declaration, the City may submit an impact statement in addition
to cost estimates. The narrative outlines the disaster’s impact to the City’s operations, which may
otherwise not be reflected in the quantitate submission. A sample impact statement submitted by the
City following Hurricane Sandy is copied below.